The George Parker Golfing Lodge 1316 enthusiastically met informally yet again for a round of golf at Datchet Golf Club on Thursday 16th October 2025 in wonderfully kept surroundings frequented by no other than the Scots Guards.
Rumour has it that a prominent member of our Royal Family at the time, a guest of one of our very own Lea Family, who was a member at the club, attempted a round, though decided amicably, very early in the proceedings to retire to the 19th hole due to reasons of state secrecy.
The day started excellently with breakfast rolls from 07.15 onwards, after which our first enthusiasts teed off at 08.00 leading the way.
Group 1 – left to right – Garry Foley, Alec Lea and Phil Williams; Group 2 – George Frazer, Ken Enders and Geoff Herbert; Group 3 – John Kasprzyk, Jon Lea and Tom Lea.
Once the battle of the balls had concluded, the gentlemen made their way to the well-stocked 19th hole and enjoyed refreshments, followed by an enjoyable lunch, thereafter competitors of the day were honoured with the prize giving and recognition for their gallant efforts to be historically recorded for the pleasure of all.
The Gladiator of the elusive spherical flying object to take 1st prize, with a score of 33 points and playing with a handicap of 22 was awarded the handsome George Parker Trophy that has been restored to a condition that makes it even more desirable than its former glory.
This achievement is now Traditionally marked by The George Parker Golfing Lodge 1316 with the additional presentation, a personalised certificate, to remind all how this pole position is deemed to have been achieved, “El Certificado del Bandido”.
“El Certificado del Bandido”.
Following very close, by a tireless use of his spurs, with relentless effort, getting out of a buggy, projecting his missile within inches of other players lives, getting back into his chariot and racing to another advantageous position, was Tom Lea with 32 points, playing off a handicap of “34” whispers were heard along the corridors, demanding the enforcement of yet another certificate. Confused by his major achievement rendered him unsure of which balls to accept as his runner up prize.
Revealing that his efforts would yield a far more fitting prize, if only he could practice the softening of his grip during play.
In 3rd place playing with a Handicap of 18, was El Padron, Garry Foley, finding his way to yet another historical position in our recorded events by not only being placed, additionally, once again made nearest to pin and longest drive, “What a Player and Gentleman”
Then the prize of the tournaments results that I had anxiously, though patiently waited for, without giving away any signs of emotion, came down to the wire. The Trophy that I had relied on euphorically during our past campaigns, that I was able to proudly parade with as a token of my achievements, was cruelly snatched from my possession, due to an unnecessary count back of scores, between three contenders, Mr Geoff Herbert, George Frazer and I, revealing that all hope was gone and I had lost “MY” trophy to no other than George Frazer.
Managing to console myself in a dim corner, I came to terms with my loss, and vowed that on my return that coverted piece, “The Bevis Spoon” will return to me, I just need to lose more balls.
In All, a Great day out was had by all those that attended, lots of laughter, some very Good Golf ,contented, Fed and refreshed, we parted company in Great spirits and look forward to our next golfing adventure together with The George Parker Golfing Lodge 1316,
Happy have we met, Happy did we Part and already looking forward to Happily meeting again !
Report prepared by W. Bro. John F. Kasprzyk Prov.GJD, Assistant to the Assistant Secretary.